How our scholarship applicants shape our community
Southwest Washington women building community
The women applying for Woman of Wonder scholarships aren't just students - they're the backbone of Southwest Washington. From Vancouver to Longview, these applicants volunteer at food banks, mentor youth, and build stronger communities throughout Clark and Cowlitz Counties while pursuing degrees at Clark College, WSU Vancouver, and Lower Columbia College.
When reviewing the 2025–2026 Woman of Wonder Scholarship applications, one theme stood out loud and clear: volunteerism. These applicants aren’t just pursuing degrees—they’re actively building stronger, more compassionate communities.
These aren't just statistics from across Washington State—these are women from our Southwest Washington communities. A regional strengthened by food banks, to Longview youth programs, from Clark County environmental initiatives to Cowlitz County healthcare clinics, our applicants are actively weaving the fabric of our region.
Education
Applicants tutor peers, mentor youth, and teach in schools and clubs. Their efforts empower others through knowledge—often in underserved communities.
Social Support
From food banks to shelters and church outreach, many applicants provide meals, resources, and emotional support to those in need.
Environmental Stewardship
Whether cleaning up lakes, parks, or stormwater sites, these students are taking action to protect the planet and foster community pride.
Community Events
Applicants helped organize festivals, parades, and fundraisers—creating inclusive spaces for celebration and connection.
Healthcare
Some assist in clinics, translating for patients and helping with intake. Others are inspired by their volunteer work to pursue careers in nursing and medicine.
Youth Programs
From Girl Scouts to summer camps, applicants are investing in the next generation—supporting children’s growth, safety, and joy.
Advocacy
Several applicants are involved in DEI initiatives, city council meetings, and accessibility programs, using their voices to advocate for systemic change.
How Often Do They Volunteer?
While not all applicants specified frequency, a few mentioned weekly, monthly, or seasonal commitments—suggesting that many integrate service into their regular routines.
Volunteerism in Southwest Washington: A regional strength
The high level of community service among our Southwest Washington applicants reflects something special about our region. Women in Clark and Cowlitz Counties don't just pursue education for themselves—they invest in their neighbors, building stronger communities from Vancouver to Castle Rock. That’s why we focus on women in Southwest Washington.
It Matters
These stories reveal more than just extracurricular activities—they show character, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose. For many applicants, volunteering is not just something they do, it’s part of who they are. If you want to be part of this amazing group, apply for a Woman of Wonder scholarship.
As we continue to support women in Clark County and surrounding communities through education, their acts of service remind us that a scholarship is a seed of hope—and that even a small contribution can create a lasting impact.
Thank you for considering a donation to make a lasting impact.
Volunteers helping at a food bank.